Paul Martin Stiegler

Paul was born on May 14, 1954, in Boston, Massachusetts. The youngest of four children, he grew up in the Mattapan neighborhood of Boston and nearby communities, where he was known for his generosity, friendliness, and dependability. Paul took a genuine interest in the lives of everyone around him—qualities that remained constant throughout his life.

As a young man, Paul played with Dante’s Drum and Bugle Corp in Hyde Park, then became involved with the Boston Crusaders, a nationally competitive marching band. These organizations fostered his lifelong commitment to teamwork and service, and it was there that he formed many enduring friendships.

From 1974 to 1978, Paul served in the United States Air Force as an Airborne Voice Processing Specialist. His service included a year of intensive Russian language study at the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, California, followed by assignments in Fairbanks, Alaska; Mildenhall, England; Okinawa, Japan; and Omaha, Nebraska, among others. His military service reflected his quiet sense of duty and willingness to serve his country where needed.

Paul earned a Bachelor of Arts in Russian Language and Literature from Boston College, followed by a Master of Arts in Russian Language and Linguistics from the State University of New York at Albany. While in Albany, he met his wife, Janet, beginning a 43-year partnership grounded in respect, shared purpose, and affection. They married in September 1982 and moved to Virginia, where Paul began a distinguished career at the Central Intelligence Agency.

Starting as an intelligence analyst, Paul was quickly recognized for his integrity, sound judgment, and people-centered leadership. He rose into management and senior staff roles across multiple directorates during a 32-year career. Paul was widely regarded as a mentor and trusted colleague—someone who listened carefully, led with humility, and cared deeply about both the Agency’s mission and the people who carried it out.

Paul and Janet raised two children, James Robert and Leah Michele, who were the great pride and joy of his life. The family made their home in Vienna, Virginia, where Paul was a constant and enthusiastic presence. Despite a busy career, he regularly attended Jim’s marching band performances and Leah’s basketball games. He also served as a Cub Scout leader during Jim’s childhood, finding great satisfaction in guiding and encouraging young people.

Paul regularly volunteered to lead the band’s annual orange sale fundraiser, coordinating Florida vendors, truck drivers, parents, and students. Even when a truckload of oranges broke down in the heat, Paul met the challenge with good humor and practical problem-solving—the same qualities that defined him in all areas of life.

A devoted animal lover, Paul was a true “dog whisperer.” He helped raise rescue dogs Quincy, Diego, Sophie, Van, and Brianna, all of whom adored him and invariably chose him as their favorite person.

After retiring from the CIA in 2014, Paul and Janet moved to Leland, North Carolina, where he continued a life of service. He served on the town’s Economic Council, volunteered as a guardian ad litem for a foster child, mentored business students at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and, shortly before his death, trained as a docent and tour guide aboard the WWII Memorial Battleship, USS North Carolina.

Paul is survived by his wife, Janet; his son, Jim (Lyndsey), his daughter, Leah (Sarah), his brother Robert Stiegler (Rita), and his sister, Judy Collins (Roger). He is also remembered by many in-laws, nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were made better by his kindness, generosity, and quiet service to others. He was predeceased by his parents, Henry and Agnes (Campbell) Stiegler, and his beloved brother, Kenneth Stiegler.

A private celebration of Paul’s life and legacy will be held in Boston later this year. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Boston Crusaders, Paw's Place Animal Rescue in Leland, NC, or a non-profit of the donor's choice.